Things To Do
in San Antonio del Sur

San Antonio del Sur is a charming coastal town located in the eastern part of Cuba, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by lush greenery and stunning beaches, it offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The town is also recognized for its warm hospitality and vibrant local community.

San Antonio del Sur is an ideal destination for those looking to experience authentic Cuban life away from the crowded tourist spots.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Town
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a stroll around the town to admire the colorful colonial architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Playa de Jibacoa for sunbathing and swimming, or enjoy a guided tour of the local art galleries showcasing Cuban artists.

evening
:

Dine at a beachfront restaurant to enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Caribbean Sea.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a hike in the Sierra Maestra mountains, where you can explore lush trails and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

Return to town for a visit to the local market, where you can sample fresh produce and handmade crafts.

evening
:

Experience local nightlife by attending a live music event at a community center or a bar, enjoying traditional Cuban music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$10
🛏️Budget Accommodation$25
🚖Taxi Ride$5
Cuban Coffee$1
🥭Fresh Fruit$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and beaches
  • Authentic Cuban cultural experiences
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited access to modern amenities
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
  • Transportation might be challenging
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?

Places to Visit in San Antonio del Sur

Visit one of these nice places.

Playa de Jibacoa

A picturesque beach with clear waters, perfect for capturing stunning sunset photos.

Sierra Maestra Mountains

Breathtaking views from the peaks, offering great opportunities for landscape photography.

Main Square

The vibrant heart of the town, surrounded by colorful buildings and local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in San Antonio del Sur

San Antonio del Sur offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich flavors of Cuban cuisine.

San Antonio del Sur Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ropa Vieja

Shredded beef cooked in a rich tomato sauce, a classic Cuban dish.

Must-Try!

Moros y Cristianos

A traditional dish of black beans and rice, often served with fried plantains.

Tostones

Fried green plantains, a popular Cuban snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Agropecuario

A bustling local market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade goods.

Street Vendors

Various vendors selling snacks like empanadas and churros throughout the town.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in San Antonio del Sur is tropical, with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season runs from November to April, while the rainy season spans from May to October, characterized by higher humidity and occasional thunderstorms. Average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a hug is common when meeting someone.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important in Cuban culture.

Dining Etiquette

It is polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Safety Guide

Safety

San Antonio del Sur is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, keep valuables secured, and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places.

Tipping in San Antonio del Sur

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; small tips for service are appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cuban pesos (CUP) are commonly used; credit cards are accepted at some establishments but not all.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

Mild temperatures and lower humidity make it a pleasant time to visit.

Spring

Ideal for outdoor activities, with blooming flora and comfortable weather.

Summer

Hot and humid, be prepared for occasional rain and seek shade during peak hours.

Autumn

Warm temperatures and fewer tourists, providing a relaxing experience.

Nightlife Guide

San Antonio del Sur at Night

San Antonio del Sur has a vibrant nightlife scene, primarily centered around local bars and community events. Live music is prevalent, with many venues featuring salsa and son music, creating a lively atmosphere for dancing. Visitors can also experience cultural performances showcasing traditional Cuban dances.

Hiking in San Antonio del Sur

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

El Yunque Trail

A challenging hike that leads to the summit of El Yunque mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

La Gran Piedra Trail

An easier hike that culminates at a large rock formation, providing panoramic views of the coastline.

Airports

How to reach San Antonio del Sur by plane.

Antonio Maceo Airport (SCU)

Located approximately 90 km from San Antonio del Sur, this is the nearest major airport, providing domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

San Antonio del Sur is a walkable town with most attractions and amenities within a short distance. The streets are generally safe, and walking is a pleasant way to experience the local culture. However, some areas may have uneven terrain, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Cuban Locals

The majority of the population is made up of local Cubans, who are known for their warm hospitality.

Tourists

Visitors from around the world come to experience the beauty and culture of San Antonio del Sur, contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Cuba, with many locals passionately following the national league.

Boxing

Cuban boxing is renowned worldwide, with many local athletes training and competing at high levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in San Antonio del Sur is generally light, with most local travel done on foot or by bicycle. Public transportation options such as buses and shared taxis are available, but schedules may be irregular. Visitors should plan accordingly and allow extra time for travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting San Antonio del Sur.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians; inquire at restaurants.

Gluten-Free

Options are available, but it's best to communicate your needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in San Antonio del Sur is basic, with a local clinic available for minor medical issues. For more serious conditions, it may be necessary to travel to larger cities like Santiago de Cuba. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance and bring any necessary medications.

Discover Cuba

Read more in our Cuba 2025 Travel Guide.

Cuba Travel Guide